Christmas Tree Base-ics: Finishing Your Tree

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, where would we be without you? If you’re reading this blog it’s probably because, as with many people, the Christmas tree is a key focal point of your holiday decor, not to mention your holiday memories and traditions. And it’s not just the tree itself. How we decorate the tree is extremely personalized. Sometimes traditions are passed down over generations with specific styles or decorations reigning strong. Sometimes the tree is a yearly masterpiece which must, under all circumstances, be bigger and better in every way, every year. And sometimes there’s room for a little of everything.

No matter what your Christmas tree style, or how many trees you have in your home, be sure to complete your tree from top to bottom with a Christmas tree skirt or a Christmas tree collar for a truly polished look. With a sleigh full of options, you’re sure to find a skirt or collar to match your Christmas tree aesthetic.

Tree Skirt Vs. Collar

Christmas tree skirts have been around for many years. They consist of a piece of fabric that’s draped around the base of the tree. It’s thought the origins date back to the mid-1800s, where they were used in Germany to collect wax drippings from the candles that adorned the trees. Nowadays, they are used for aesthetic purposes, covering up any unsightly trunks, stands and wires that may be used. There are many styles available which can add to the design of your tree, and give it a cohesive look.

A tree collar has a more rigid design, often made from a variety of solid materials including wood, metal, wicker and/or poly materials. It may feature a plain design or be decorated in a specific theme. A tree collar is positioned around the base of the tree to cover the stand. They provide more vertical solid coverage than tree skirts. There are many designs to choose from, and colors such as red, green white and beyond the traditional Christmas palette.

Tree Bases: Traditional Style

Is your tree adorned in colorful lights? Are your ornaments assorted from different times and places? Does your tree feature traditional holiday colors with lots of reds, greens, and whites? Then you may want a more traditional Christmas tree base.

Traditional Christmas tree skirts and collars carry a timeless appeal. They complement a traditional tree without being overbearing, and make any necessary clean-up a breeze with easy to wash fabrics like cotton and polyester. To finish off your tree with a traditional look, perhaps seek out a red Christmas tree skirt featuring fun holiday themes such as snowflakes, presents, or Santa and his reindeer. Or get creative by layering tree skirts in much the same way as you’d layer rugs. Use a base skirt with a festive pattern, such as red and black plaid, and then layer another, somewhat smaller skirt over it in a complimentary color featuring a simple northwoods or Christmas scene. There are also traditional skirts featuring beautiful Oriental patterns. If a sleek tree collar is more your style, look for one in traditional holiday colors, or one incorporating natural fibers, such as wicker, wood, or woven fabric.

Tree Bases: Contemporary Style

On the flip side, if your tree is covered in white twinkling light, strands of pearls, matching bougie ornaments, or lots of silver or gold, you may want to consider a contemporary tree base to complete the look.

Contemporary tree skirts and collars come in a wide range of options. For a basic contemporary feel, start with a white Christmas tree skirt with a plush texture. Or go out on a limb and incorporate a skirt with sequins or shimmery fabrics. You can also bring texture into your room with a shag tree skirt or other heavily textured skirt.

For a contemporary tree collar, consider one in shiny metallics or other reflective surfaces to brighten the base of your tree while still hiding the tree stand underneath.

Complete your Christmas tree this year with a decorative tree skirt or base to create a finished, polished look that’s all your own.